Things to do in the local area
- Activities for children and young people with SEND
- See also, activity listings in the children, young people and families section of Livewell Southend.
- Activities supported by Short Breaks Main Access Grant funding
- Essex Youth Map - find a group or activity near you
- Ofsted registered holiday clubs
- Visit Southend website
- Support groups and services for parent carers
- SEND surgeries
SEND Information Day - 16 June 2026
Parent carers and professionals are invited to the SEND Information Day at Southend Civic Centre on Tuesday 16 June 2026.
Come along to listen to talks and meet local services and support organisations.
Find out more and pre-register!
Discounts, grants and support
Carers can apply for a Carers Card which provides a range of benefits including discounted access to a range of activities. This is a national scheme. Find out about Carers Card UK.
A National Disability Card scheme is also available. Card holders can get discounts at some attractions, including Disneyland Paris and a range of online shopping discounts. Find out about the National Disability Card.
The Southend Advantage Card offers reduced prices on a range of activities.
A CEA Card is available for people aged 5 years and over who need to be accompanied in cinemas because of their disability. It enables the cardholder to be accompanied by someone, free of charge, when they buy a ticket to visit a particpating cinema with a carer.
Family Fund provide grants for days out and family breaks (subject to eligibility criteria).
Merlin Entertainments Carer's Pass and Ride Access Pass.
The hidden disabilities sunflower card is a way of showing you or your child or young person may need extra time, care, patience or understanding. Find out more here.
Holiday activities and food programme (HAF)
HAF is a free and exciting holiday programme for children and young people aged 5 to 16 who are eligible for benefit related free school meals.
The programme runs over the Easter, Summer, and Christmas school holidays and is funded by the Department for Education (DfE). Find out about the HAF programme.